A canal towpath in Pleck has re-opened to the public following a toxic chemical spillage which occurred in August.
The public are still being urged to avoid any contact with the water, despite lab testing by the Environment Agency showing that pollution levels have dropped to an acceptable level. Pets should also be kept away from the water, while fishing is currently not allowed.
“It’s a relief that we’re now in a position to announce the re-opening of the last kilometre of canal towpath, “ said Councillor Garry Perry, Leader of Walsall Council
“I’d like to thank residents for their patience and understanding throughout this time. Now the pollution levels in the water have reduced over the last few weeks, attention moves to focus on efforts to recover the canal and its wildlife.
“It is, however, vitally important for everyone to follow the guidance issued, namely keeping out of the water and avoiding activities such as fishing.
The major incident occurred on the Walsall Canal after a large quantity of diluted sodium, zinc cyanide and a mixture of low-hazard chemicals was discovered to have affected 12 miles of waterways. The leak was reported to be from a local metal finishing company, Anochrome Ltd.
The canal, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including fish, birds, and aquatic plants, was quickly affected, with initial signs of distress in some species evident within hours of the spill.
Emergency response teams were dispatched to contain the chemical and minimise the immediate environmental damage, while temporary barriers were erected to prevent the substance from spreading further down the canal system. Local residents were advised to avoid the area, and a section of the canal was closed off to protect both the public and the environment.
Despite the containment measures, scientists remain cautious about the spill’s broader ecological consequences. While some damage to aquatic life has been recorded, with dead fish and distressed wildlife reported in the days following the spill, the full impact on the ecosystem is yet to be determined.